Belleville battling Canada Geese

It’s spring, Canada Geese are back, and Belleville officials say this is affecting the use of waterfront trails.

Officials say the birds exhibit territorial behavior, hissing at walkers, and refusing to move out of the way of cyclists.

There is also the issue of goose excrement along the trails.

Parks staff spokesman Larry Glover told city council’s budget meeting that this year’s program to combat the geese will include egg oiling, hazing by border collies, lasers which he says cause no harm, and relocation if the large numbers persist.

When Councillor Jackie Denyes questioned what she called “harsh measures,” Glover said they are similar to those taken by Oakville and Cobourg.